Job Seekers: How to Land A Job During A Global Pandemic

Employment since the pandemic:

It has been just over a year since the pandemic hit the UK and for other countries, the destruction started even earlier. But, at the time of writing, we are all living in its consequences, one way or another. 

Unemployment has reached its highest level in almost five years. According to the Office for National Statistics, the rate of unemployment rose to 5.1% between October and December of 2020 alone.

And, this bleak rise is predicted to continue.

Fear not, however, I want to share with LinkedIn 3 proven ways you can score yourself a new job amid a global pandemic...

How you can still land a new job:

Make your CV bot-friendly

Before your application is read by ANYONE, it is first scanned by a ‘bot’.

"What is a bot?", you ask?

It is an AI-powered functionality that is part of an applicant tracking system that searches for keywords related to the job posting to then shortlist candidates.

Pretty much every job board has bots, but there are ways to make it work to your advantage:

• Use keywords from the job description, but don’t copy. (For example, you could use terms like 'SEO', 'Microsoft proficient', 'data analyst'.)
• Personalise each CV to the job in questions.
• Avoid using pictures!
• You can use two pages, don’t worry.

Look for work that has a future

With so much uncertainty right now, the best thing you can do for your future career is to research what industries are secure and sustainable.

LinkedIn regularly updates their “Here’s who’s hiring right now” blog for your perusal:

https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/heres-whos-hiring-right-now-andrew-seaman/ 

Take a look at what’s in demand and make industries that are looking bleak a plan B.

Here are a few industries that are booming right now are:

E-commerce

Since the highstreets have, everyone is online shopping.

• The industry grew by 73% in a year.
• 400,000 jobs are available right now.
• Top jobs include: Driver, Supply Chain Associate, Package Handler

Healthcare

Since the pandemic has caused health problems for millions.

• 34% increase in job openings since 2019.
• Jobs include: Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, Pharmacy Assistant

Upskill, soft skills and keeping an open-mind

Though it is crucial we keep in mind our long-term goals and aspirations, working in a temporary role due to limited employment options is very much a reality right now.

The UK is in its worst recession since the Great Frost of 1709, so having a job of any sorts is an achievement right now!

A momentary change in career direction doesn’t have to be negative if you don’t want it to be. It can be an opportunity to learn new skills, meet new people and try out new things.

How to do this: 

• Spot your soft skills, i.e: strong communicator, IT technical, fast reader/learner
• Learn: Read from experienced professionals, take their advice, research for yourself
• Certificates: Apply for online courses from trusted education tools
• Voluntary work: take on part-time/voluntary work for a company in the industry

Summary

To summarise briefly, getting a new job amid a pandemic is certainly not easy, but it is not impossible either. 

Remember:

1. Make your CV bot friendly
2. Look amongst sustainable industries
3. And, notice, improve and accept you